Teenager Arrested for Alleged Illegal Abortion in Kasese

Kasese police have taken into custody 18-year-old Nyangoma Sylvia over accusations of terminating her pregnancy and disposing of the fetus in a neighbor's latrine in Nyakatonzi cell, Kasese Municipality. The arrest followed a night-long operation after reports emerged of the alleged abortion.

Details of the Incident  
Local Council Chairperson Lawrence Bwambale reported receiving information about the case at 9 p.m. and immediately took action to prevent the suspect from fleeing. By morning, Sylvia had been apprehended. Authorities later escorted her from her home in Nyamirangara cell to Nyakatonzi cell, approximately one kilometer away, where she reportedly led them to the latrine containing the remains of the fetus.  

Community Outcry  
The situation drew strong reactions from local residents, who gathered at the scene and verbally confronted the suspect. Some community members, including Janet Katushabe and Mbambu Angela, expressed disbelief at Sylvia's alleged decision to terminate the pregnancy, noting that the father had reportedly been willing to support both mother and child.  

Police Procedure  
Officers arriving at the scene faced demands from residents to immediately retrieve the fetal remains. However, law enforcement officials prioritized the suspect's health, insisting on taking her for medical examination before any recovery operation of the alleged three-month-old fetus could commence.  

Legal Implications  
The case falls under Uganda's strict abortion laws. Article 22(2) of the Constitution prohibits termination of pregnancy except under medically authorized circumstances. Furthermore, Sections 142 and 143 of the 1950 Penal Code prescribe severe penalties: up to seven years imprisonment for attempting an unlawful abortion and three years for assisting in the procedure.  

The arrest highlights ongoing tensions between Uganda's legal framework and the complex realities surrounding unplanned pregnancies, particularly among teenagers. Health advocates note that such cases often reflect gaps in sexual education and access to reproductive health services.  

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged abortion while the suspect remains in custody awaiting formal charges. Medical professionals are working to verify the details of the case, including the stage of pregnancy and methods allegedly used.